Our Earth, Our Fishing Communities

April 22, 2012 - Our fishing communities have an important role in protecting our earth—research between science and fishing communities is key to conserving resources. Take a look at the collaboration between NOAA scientists and fishermen and hear how this team is using new tools to survey, research, and better understand depleted, commercially important groundfish in the Southern California Bight—the area located in coastal southern California which includes the Channel Islands and part of the Pacific Ocean.

Unlike most current data collection techniques, using advanced sonar techniques does not require catching fish with trawl nets and counting them on deck. Using video footage and high quality photos in tandem, these tools survey large areas in a short amount of time, while minimizing the negative impacts on fish and habitat.